6 Things You Can Do While Waiting for Labor to Start

So...you’re in the home stretch. You’ve washed the baby clothes, packed the hospital bag (or most of it), and officially hit the point where everyone’s texting “Is baby here yet?!” every five minutes. You’re more than ready to meet your baby—but your baby seems to be very cozy in there. So now what?

First things first: you’re not alone. This “hurry up and wait” phase is one of the most mentally challenging parts of pregnancy. The good news? There are actually a good amount of things you can do while you wait that might make you feel more prepared, more relaxed, and maybe even a little bit entertained.

Here’s a list of 6 practical, productive, and fun things to try while waiting for labor to start.

No, walking around Target for an hour probably won’t send you into labor (but wouldn’t that be magical), but light movement has many benefits. Things like walking, stretching, or gently bouncing on a birthing ball can boost circulation, ease end-of-pregnancy soreness, and even help your baby settle into an optimal position for birth.

If nothing else, it gets you off the couch for a little bit. And might even help you sleep better at night, zzz!

Moving your body helps release feel-good hormones and breaks up long, slow days. You don’t have to go full workout mode—just a 15-minute walk or some hip circles on the ball totally counts.

Make sure you listen to your body and don’t overdo it—you’re not trying to force labor here. Think of it more as a mood boost instead of trying to get labor going. And if it happens to get labor going, consider it an added bonus!

Here’s how to make it easier on yourself. Start early, make a double batch of whatever you’re making for dinner 1-2 times per week, stick the extra in the freezer, and voila!

Let’s talk nesting. It’s real, it’s powerful, and it can hit out of nowhere. One minute you’re crying over a yogurt commercial, the next you’re elbow-deep in a drawer wondering why you own 47 takeout menus.

If you’re feeling the urge to clean, organize, or “get things ready,” embrace it—but be strategic about it. The goal here is to channel that nesting energy into simple, helpful tasks that’ll actually make your life easier once baby arrives… not to exhaust yourself in the name of spotless grout.

Here are a few easy, high-reward nesting wins:

Nesting is your body’s way of prepping for what’s coming—just don’t let it turn into a stress spiral. Small, intentional tasks go a long way. Save your energy for labor and those snuggly newborn days ahead. And if all you do is organize a drawer and binge-watch a show? You’re still crushing it, mama.

It’s SO tempting to keep busy…but now’s the time to rest when you can, mama. I know—this one’s tough when you’re uncomfortable, over it, and feel like a whale trying to get comfortable in bed. 

But here’s the thing: any rest you can get right now counts—even if it’s not perfect sleep. Nap. Lounge. Binge trash TV. Say yes to the foot rub.

Even if you can’t sleep, putting your feet up is a win. Your body is doing something huge… growing an actual human. You don’t have to earn or justify rest.

And let’s be honest…there are not going to be a ton of chill, quiet moments in the newborn phase. So lean into this slower pace while you can.

Being pregnant is a full-time job—but you’re still you. Take time to do something that feels like you: read a book, bake cookies, do a puzzle, get a pedicure, or binge that TV series you love.

Giving your mind a break from all things baby can be refreshing—and it reminds you that you’re still an individual person, not just a soon-to-be mama.

And while we’re on the topic of “not baby related”, go on a date or do something fun with your partner. It might be a while before the two of you get some one-on-one time together again so try and prioritize this one.

Okay, real talk: labor can be intense. Now is a great time to go over those pain coping techniques you’ve learned—especially if you took a birth class (oh hi!). That way it’s fresh in your mind for when it’s go time!

This is a perfect time to test out labor positions, breathing techniques, relaxation techniques, and different pain coping exercises. 

If you anticipate having your partner involved now would be a good time to have them practice different positions and techniques with you. This can be a sweet way to connect and help them feel more involved, plus it gives you confidence for the big day.

Waiting for labor can be exhausting—but you’re doing great. Use this time to care for yourself, bond with your partner, and prepare for what’s to come. No matter how or when labor starts, your body knows what to do and you are totally going to rock it!

Information provided in blogs should not be used as a substitute for medical care or consultation.